Advisory Commission Considers Drilling Rules For Marcellus Shale

The Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission is meeting today in Annapolis to consider possible legislative proposals for the 2013 General Assembly session.

One proposal would require drillers to have pollution insurance of at least $1 million per loss. Another would require a state registration of those who negotiate mineral rights from landowners. They would need to abide by an industry code of ethics.

The panel is also considering proposing a tax on gas extracted from Maryland wells to monitor the impact of drilling. And it's also considering a possible law to protect landowners from surface damage caused by underground drilling.

The measure would govern drilling in the Marcellus Shale formation, which underlies parts of at least five states, including Maryland.

When you give to WAMU, your tax-deductible membership gift helps make possible award-winning programs such as Morning Edition, All Things Considered, The Diane Rehm Show, The Kojo Nnamdi Show, and other favorites.